Garden party celebrates magnificent army of volunteers

For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, Northamptonshire Police hosted a special event this summer to celebrate its magnificent army of volunteers.

More than 130 Police Support Volunteers and their families attended the tea party held in the gardens at Force Headquarters, to recognise the contribution of the volunteers.

Organised by the Force’s Citizen in Policing team, this was the first time the annual summer event had been held since 2019, providing the perfect opportunity for the Force to say one big thank you.

The volunteers and their guests were served a marvellous spread of refreshments, whilst the Force’s voluntary pipe band provided the music and there was a games corner for the children.

The Force has 200 volunteers in various roles across the county which includes Volunteer on Horseback, Heritage, Street Watch, Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Administration support, Cold Case review, County Schools Challenge, road safety and Disability Access Services.

Volunteers give up their time freely to support the Force in more than 20 different voluntary roles and last year collectively contributed an incredible 2,448 hours of their time during the second year of the pandemic. So far, they have completed an astonishing 4,026 hours.

Sergeant Sue Torrance of the Citizen in Policing team said: “We are very fortunate in Northamptonshire to have such amazing volunteers who give their own time to support policing.

“After the past two years of Covid-19, this event was the perfect opportunity to welcome back all our volunteers, some of whom have not been able to volunteer due to the Covid-19 restrictions and we thank them for their continued support.”

Chief Superintendent Adam Ward opened the event and presented certificates to volunteers who were recognised for their contributions to the Force from one-year to 10-years’ service.

He said: “It was an honour to be asked to attend this wonderful event and to give thanks to our volunteers who give up their time freely to the Force and the wider community.”

More information on volunteering is available on the Northamptonshire Police website at www.northants.police.uk.